The Sigla Blog

AMIINA
Kurr
Ever Records
****
Does Iceland boast any cheesy chart-toppers or MOR rock? You wouldn’t think so based on the bulk of its homegrown music, that geographically eclectic vein that charms the outside world. Whether it’s the irreverent experimentalism of Bjork or the fey rhythms of múm, each act often captures something of the landscape from which it came. No band manages this better than Amiina, whose musical currency started with stunning string arrangements for the last two Sigur Ros albums and touring support slots with the band.

Stepping out of the shadow of Jonsi & co., the all-female quartet of María (violin), Hildur (violin), Edda (viola) and Sólrún (cello) finally releases a debut of remarkable music that transports and beguiles. In composition terms, there’s a studied melancholy that has more in common with fellow Icelandic composer Johann Johannsson than collaborators Sigur Ros. Odd then, that so many of the arrangements sound so meandering and ambient, when they’re obviously meticulously scored. Kurr . which appropriately translates as “cooingâ€? - is also an album entirely devoid of angles, preferring to keep a linear structure of soft focus, of nursery chimes and bell-ringing reverie. It’s as if its classical head is ruled by its experimental, emotional heart.

These aural vistas, created using everything from harmoniums, singing wine glasses, kalimbas and harpsichords, have a nocturnal backdrop . sleepy, soothing and over before you know it. Vocals are hazy and sporadic, as on Hilli, Kolapot and Rugla, where they seep into the instrumentation, but mostly they’re left out altogether. Despite the presence of umpteen musical instruments - which the group have a habit of swapping around - simplicity takes over, as on the lullaby-like Kolapot and the sombre brass of Bláfeldur. Kurr is like a film-less soundtrack; a hinterland score for quiet moments; and could be marketed for insomnia, once it points out that if it sends you off to sleep, it’s in a very good way.

Download Tracks: Rugla. Sexfaldur. Kolapot.

Website: http://www.amiina.com

This review originally appeared, here in The Ticket, The Irish Times on Friday, June 2nd, 2007